Collapsible Table System

ABSTRACT

A collapsible table system configured to transition between a table configuration and a case configuration for easy transport or storage. The collapsible table system generally includes a tabletop having a cavity on its lower end adapted to store various components such as legs, clamps, stabilizing members, and/or attachments. The legs may be removably connected to the lower end of the tabletop to support the tabletop at various heights when in the table configuration. The legs may be stored within the cavity of the tabletop when in the case configuration. Clamps may be utilized both connect stabilizing members between the legs and to support a shelf at various heights below the tabletop. Various attachments may be stored within the tabletop to be extracted when needed.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable to this application.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable to this application.

BACKGROUND Field

Example embodiments in general relate to a collapsible table systemconfigured to transition between a table configuration and a caseconfiguration for easy transport or storage.

Related Art

Any discussion of the related art throughout the specification should inno way be considered as an admission that such related art is widelyknown or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.

Collapsible tables have been in use for many years to allow a table tobe easily stored without taking up too much space. Typically, acollapsible table will be partially collapsed, such as by folding thelegs upwardly, so that the table may be stored or moved betweenlocations.

In the past, such collapsible tables have been difficult to transportdue to being bulky, unwieldly, or uncomfortable to handle. Additionally,many collapsible tables have been known to be unwieldy and unstable whenconstructed. Collapsible tables have also not been typically convertibleinto a case configuration for easy transport. When they have, theytypically lack the ability to efficiently store a number of differentcomponents such as attachments or the like.

SUMMARY

An example embodiment is directed to a collapsible table system. Thecollapsible table system includes a tabletop having a cavity on itslower end adapted to store various components such as legs, clamps,stabilizing members, and/or attachments. The legs may be removablyconnected to the lower end of the tabletop to support the tabletop atvarious heights when in the table configuration. The legs may be storedwithin the cavity of the tabletop when in the case configuration. Clampsmay be utilized both connect stabilizing members between the legs and tosupport a shelf at various heights below the tabletop. Variousattachments may be stored within the tabletop to be extracted whenneeded.

There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, some of the embodiments ofthe collapsible table system in order that the detailed descriptionthereof may be better understood, and in order that the presentcontribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are additionalembodiments of the collapsible table system that will be describedhereinafter and that will form the subject matter of the claims appendedhereto. In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment ofthe collapsible table system in detail, it is to be understood that thecollapsible table system is not limited in its application to thedetails of construction or to the arrangements of the components setforth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. Thecollapsible table system is capable of other embodiments and of beingpracticed and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understoodthat the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purposeof the description and should not be regarded as limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Example embodiments will become more fully understood from the detaileddescription given herein below and the accompanying drawings, whereinlike elements are represented by like reference characters, which aregiven by way of illustration only and thus are not limitative of theexample embodiments herein.

FIG. 1 is a top view of a tabletop of a collapsible table system inaccordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a bottom view of a tabletop in a storage configuration of acollapsible table system in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view of a tabletop in a storage configuration of acollapsible table system in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a lower perspective view of a tabletop in a storageconfiguration of a collapsible table system in accordance with anexample embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a first lower perspective view of a tabletop with the coverand shelf insert being partially pulled off of a collapsible tablesystem in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a second lower perspective view of a tabletop with the coverand shelf insert being partially pulled off of a collapsible tablesystem in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the various components of a collapsibletable system in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of four compacted legs of a collapsibletable system in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of four fully expanded legs of acollapsible table system in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a perpsective view illustrating use of clamps and stabilizingmembers on legs of a collapsible table system in accordance with anexample embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating usage of a shelf of acollapsible table system in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary table configuration of acollapsible table system in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a cover being partially connected to atabletop when in an exemplary table configuration of a collapsible tablesystem in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of various attachments being utilized on acollapsible table system in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an individual utilizing an exemplaryembodiment of a collapsible table system.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an individual sitting while utilizingan exemplary embodiment of a collapsible table system.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of acollapsible table system being used to support a laptop and projector.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of acollapsible table system being used to support a laptop and projector.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a clamp in an opened state of acollapsible table system in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a clamp in a closed state of acollapsible table system in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view illustrating connection of a clamp on aleg of a collapsible table system in accordance with an exampleembodiment.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a slant support in use with acollapsible table system in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a laptop being angularly supported by aslant support of a collapsible table system in accordance with anexample embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a slant support in a closed state of acollapsible table system in accordance with an example embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of acollapsible table system being transported in its case configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION A. Overview

An example collapsible table system generally comprises a tabletop 20comprising an upper end 21 and a lower end 22; with the lower end 22 ofthe tabletop 20 comprising a cavity 30. A plurality of legs 40 may beremovably connected to the lower end 22 of the tabletop 20, wherein theplurality of legs 40 are adapted to support the tabletop 20 when theplurality of legs 40 are connected to the tabletop 20. A cover 80 may beconnected to the lower end 22 of the tabletop 20, wherein the cover 80is adapted to selectively enclose the cavity 30. The plurality of legs40 may be stored in the cavity 30 of the tabletop 20. A plurality ofstabilizing members 74 may be utilized for stabilizing the legs 40, witheach of the stabilizing members 74 being removably connected between theplurality of legs 40. The stabilizing members 74 may be stored in thecavity 30 of the tabletop 20.

A plurality of clamps 50 may be provided, with each of the clamps 50being removably connected to one of the legs 40. The stabilizing members74 may be connected between the clamps 50. A shelf 70 may be removablyconnected between the legs 40, such as by being removably connected tothe clamps 50. The shelf 70 may be stored between the lower end 22 ofthe tabletop 20 and the cover 80 when the cover 80 is connected to thelower end 22 of the tabletop 20. The cavity 30 may comprise a pluralityof compartments 31, 32, 33. The stabilizing members 74 may each comprisea rod.

The clamps 50 may comprise a first portion 51 and a second portion 52.The first portion 51 may be hingedly connected to the second portion 52;with the first portion 51 being hingedly connected to the second portion52. A distal end of the first portion 51 may be selectively andremovably connected to a distal end of the second portion 52. Each ofthe clamps 50 may comprise a leg opening 56 for removably receiving oneof the legs 40; the leg opening 56 being defined between the first andsecond portions 51, 52 when the first portion 51 is connected to thesecond portion 52. Each of the clamps 50 may comprise a rod opening 57,58 for removably receiving one of the stabilizing members 74.

The cavity 30 may be divided into a plurality of compartments 31, 32, 33for storing the various components of the collapsible table system 10.The cavity 30 may comprise a first compartment 31 and a secondcompartment 32; with the legs 40 being adapted to be stored in the firstcompartment 31 and the clamps 50 being adapted to be stored in thesecond compartment 32. One or more attachments 60 may be adapted to beremovably connected to the upper end 21 of the tabletop 20 with each ofthe accessories 60 being adapted to be stored in the cavity 30.

Various attachments 60 may be provided which are removably connected tothe upper end 21 of the tabletop 20 for use when desired. A documentholder 64 may be removably connected to the tabletop 20, wherein thedocument holder 64 is adapted to be stored in the cavity 30. A deviceholder 62 may be removably connected to the tabletop 20, wherein thedevice holder 62 is adapted to be stored in the cavity 30. A cup holder66 may be removably connected to the tabletop 20, wherein the cup holder66 is adapted to be stored in the cavity 30.

The tabletop 20 may include a slant support 90 which is movablyconnected within a cutout portion 98 of the upper end 21 of the tabletop20. The slant support 90 may be adjustable between a first position inwhich the slant support 90 is flush with the upper end 21 of thetabletop 20 and a second position in which the slant support 90 isadapted to extend angularly upward to support an object such as a laptop14 at an angle with respect to the upper end 21 of the tabletop 20.

B. Tabletop

As shown throughout the figures, a tabletop 20 may serve the dualfunction of acting as both the top of an upright table supported by legs40 and a carrying case for storing various components of the collapsibletable system 10. The shape, size, and configuration of the tabletop 20may vary, and thus should not be construed as limited by the exemplaryfigures. For example, the tabletop 20 is illustrated as comprising arectangular-shape, though other shapes such as circular may be utilized.

As best shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the tabletop 20 may comprise an upperend 21, a lower end 22, a first side 23, a second side 24, a first end25, and a second end 26. In embodiments in which the tabletop 20 is notfour-sided as shown in the exemplary embodiment of the figures, more orless sides 23, 24 or ends 25, 26 may be provided.

The upper end 21 of the tabletop 20 may function as a surface to supportvarious objects, such as a laptop 14 or projector 15, or simply to serveas a surface for writing or the like. As shown in FIG. 1, the upper end21 of the tabletop 20 may comprise a raised portion 27 such that, whenthe cover 80 is connected to the upper end 21 of the tabletop 20, aflush surface is provided. The size of the raised portion 27 may varywidely. In the figures, the raised portion 27 covers approximately ¼ ofthe length of the upper end 21 of the tabletop 20. It should beappreciated that the raised portion 27 could cover more or less of thelength of the tabletop 20 in different embodiments. In some embodiments,the raised portion 27 may be omitted entirely.

As best shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the sides 23, 24 of the tabletop 20 mayinclude tracks 28, 29 for removably receiving a cover 80 to removablyconnect the cover 80 to either the upper end 21 or the lower end 22 ofthe tabletop 20. The tracks 28, 29 may comprise ribs 86 or the likewhich create indentations in which a lip 85 of the cover 80 may engagesuch as by sliding between the ribs 86.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the first side 23 ofthe tabletop 20 includes a first track 28 and the second side 24 of thetabletop 20 includes a second track 29. It should be appreciated thatother methods may be utilized to removably connect the cover 80 to thetabletop 20, including clamps, brackets, bands, or the like; so long asthe cover 80 may be efficiently connected to and removed from both theupper end 21 and the lower end 22 of the tabletop 20.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5-7, the lower end 22 of the tabletop 20 maycomprise a cavity 30 adapted to store the various components of thecollapsible table system 10 when not in use. By storing the variouscomponents (such as the legs 40, clamps 50, and/or attachments 60) inthe cavity 30, the tabletop 20 may be converted into a case which may beeasily transported from one location to another to be reassembled into atable configuration.

As shown in FIG. 7, the cavity 30 may comprise a plurality ofcompartments 31, 32, 33 in some embodiments. In the exemplary embodimentshown in the figures, a first compartment 31 is adapted to removablystore the attachments 60, a second compartment 32 is adapted toremovably store the clamps 50, and a third compartment 33 is adapted toremovably store the legs 40. A first divider 34 separates the firstcompartment 31 from the third compartment 33 and a second divider 35separates the second compartment 32 from the third compartment 33.Various other configurations may be utilized.

As shown in FIG. 7, the lower end 22 of the tabletop 20 may also includeone or more leg receivers 36 a, 36 b, 36 c, 36 d adapted to removablyreceive and retain the legs 40 a, 40 b, 40 c, 40 d. Thus, the legs 40 a,40 b, 40 c, 40 d may be removed from the cavity 30 to be removablysecured in each of the corresponding leg receivers 36 a, 36 b, 36 c, 36d in order to convert to the table configuration.

The shape, size, configuration, and number of leg receivers 36 a, 36 b,36 c, 36 d utilized may vary in different embodiments to suit differenttypes of tabletops 20. In the exemplary embodiment best shown in FIG. 7,each of the leg receivers 36 a, 36 b, 36 c, 36 d is illustrated ascomprising a receiver opening adapted to frictionally engage with thecorresponding 40 a, 40 b, 40 c, 40 d. The leg receivers 36 a, 36 b, 36c, 36 d may be integral with the tabletop 20 as shown in the figures, ormay be connected to the tabletop 20.

In some embodiments, the leg receivers 36 a, 36 b, 36 c, 36 d maycomprise clamps, brackets, adhesives, fasteners, or any other structureknown to removably interconnect a leg 40 a, 40 b, 40 c, 40 d with thelower end 22 or underside of the tabletop 20.

As shown in the figures, the first leg 40 a may be removably securedwithin the first leg receiver 36 a, the second leg 40 b may be removablysecured within the second leg receiver 36 b, the third leg 40 c may beremovably secured within the third leg receiver 36 c, and the fourth leg40 d may be removably secured within the fourth leg receiver 36 d.Although the leg receivers 36 a, 36 b, 36 c, 36 d are illustrated asbeing positioned at the outer corners of the lower end 22 of thetabletop 20, it should be appreciated that the leg receivers 36 a, 36 b,36 c, 36 d could be located at various other locations along the lowerend 22 of the tabletop 20 in alternate embodiments.

As shown in FIGS. 5-7, one or more compartment covers 37, 38 may beremovably connected to selectively cover portions of the cavity 30. Thiscan be helpful in ensuring that any components of the collapsible tablesystem 10 does not jostle around or become intermingled whentransporting the system 10 in its transport configuration. Additionally,the compartment covers 37, 38 may allow some of the components of thecollapsible table system 10, such as the clamps 50, attachments 60,and/or stability members 74, to remain secured in place when not neededin the table configuration.

The shape, size, number of, and configuration of the compartment covers37, 38 may vary in different embodiments. In the exemplary embodimentbest shown in FIGS. 5-7, a first compartment cover 37 is adapted toremovably and selectively cover a first compartment 31 of the cavity 30and a second compartment cover 37 is adapted to removably andselectively cover a second compartment 38 of the cavity 30. Although notshown, additional compartment covers 37, 38 may be utilized, such as toremovably and selectively cover the third compartment 33.

The manner by which the compartment covers 37, 38 are removablyconnected so as to selectively cover parts or all of the cavity 30 mayvary in different embodiments. By way of example, the compartment covers37, 38 could be magnetically connected to the lower end 22 of thetabletop 20. Additionally, adhesives, fasteners, clamps, brackets, andthe like may be utilized in different embodiments.

C. Legs

As best shown in FIGS. 8-9, an exemplary embodiment may include aplurality of legs 40 which are adapted to be removably connected to thelower end 22 of the tabletop 20 when in the table configuration, andstored within the cavity 30 when in the transport configuration. Theshape, size, and number of legs 40 utilized may vary in differentembodiments to suit different types of tabletops 20. Additionally, themanner in which the legs 40 are removably connected to the lower end 22of the tabletop 20, or the manner in which the legs 40 are stored withinthe cavity 30, may vary in different embodiments.

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the legs 40 may be length-adjustable suchthat the elevation or height of the tabletop 20 when in the tableconfiguration may be adjusted to suit different needs (such as sittingor standing) or different heights of users. The legs 40 may also bereduced to their shortest length so as to fit within the cavity 30 ofthe tabletop 20 when in storage.

In some embodiments, the legs 40 may be telescopically-adjustable suchas shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. The manner in which the legs 40 areadjustable-in-length may utilize various methods and devices known inthe art and should not be construed as limited by the exemplary figures.The legs 40 may, by way of example and without limitation, include aratchet-system for adjustment, may include printed height adjustmentmarkers on each leg, a push-button lever for adjusting height, slots orthe like at predetermined intervals, etc.

The number of segments 43, 44, 45 may vary for different embodiments.The legs 40 may comprise an outer segment 43 into which one or moreinner segments 44, 45 may be selectively inserted or pulled out. In theexemplary embodiment shown in the figures, each leg 40 comprises anouter segment 43, a first inner segment 44 which is telescopicallyadjustable into or out of the outer segment 43, and a second innersegment 45 which is telescopically adjustable into or out of the firstinner segment 43.

As shown in the figures, the legs 40 may comprise openings 46 on one ormore of its segments 43, 44, 45. The openings 46 may be utilized inconnection with a variety of different locking members 47 to selectivelysecure the legs 40 at various lengths. The figures illustrate anexemplary configuration of a locking members 47 in which a trigger maybe utilized to selectively lock or unlock the segments 43, 44, 45 invarious positions with respect to each other. Alternatively, a pin,fastener, frictional engagement, magnets, clamps, or the like may beutilized to selectively lock or unlock the segments 43, 44, 45 tocollapse or extend the length of each leg 40.

As shown in FIGS. 8-9, each leg 40 may comprise an upper end 41 and alower end 42. The upper end 41 of each leg 40 may include a connector 49such as threading or the like to assist with engaging to or disengagingfrom a corresponding leg receiver 36 on the lower end 22 of the tabletop20 to selectively connect each leg 40 to the tabletop 20 when in thetable configuration. In some embodiments, the upper end 41 of each leg40 may frictionally engage with a corresponding leg receiver 36. Inother embodiments, magnets, fasteners, adhesives, or the like may beutilized to connect the upper end 41 of each leg 40 with the lower end22 of the tabletop 20.

In other embodiments, the connector 49 of each leg 40 may comprise athreaded member so that the upper end 41 of each leg 40 may be screwedinto the corresponding leg receiver 36 on the tabletop 20. The lower end42 of each leg 40 may include a base, pads, feet, or the like to preventskidding or sliding of the legs 40 when standing upright on a groundsurface.

As shown in FIGS. 8-9, an exemplary embodiment may comprise a first leg40 a, a second leg 40 b, a third leg 40 c, and a fourth leg 40 d. Thefirst leg 40 a may be removably connected to a corresponding first legreceiver 36 a when forming the table configuration. The second leg 40 bmay be removably connected to a corresponding second leg receiver 36 b,the third leg 40 c may be removably connected to a corresponding thirdleg receiver 36 c, and a fourth leg 40 d may be removably connected to acorresponding fourth leg receiver 36 d.

As shown in FIGS. 5-6, the legs 40 may be stored in the cavity 30 of thetabletop 20 when in the transport configuration. The legs 40 may besecured by brackets, clamps, magnets, fasteners, or the like in someembodiments. Although not shown, a compartment cover 37, 38 couldenclose the legs 40 within the cavity 30.

D. Clamps

In an exemplary embodiment as shown in FIG. 10, clamps 50 may beremovably connected to one or more of the legs 40. The clamps 50 may beutilized to provide connection points for stability members 74 such asrods as shown in FIG. 10. The clamps 50 may also be utilized to supporta shelf 70 between the legs as shown in FIG. 11.

Generally, there will be at least one clamp 50 for each leg 40, thoughin some embodiments less clamps 50 may be utilized. The figuresillustrate an embodiment in which four clamps 40 are utilized inconjunction with four corresponding legs 40. The positioning of anyparticular clamp 50 along the length of the legs 40 may vary dependingon the needs of the particular usage of the collapsible table system 10at that particular time, as the height of the shelf 70 may be adjusteddepending on the positioning of the clamps 50 on the legs 40.

The shape, size, and configuration of the clamps 50 may vary indifferent embodiments. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 19-20,each clamp 50 is illustrated as comprising a first portion 51 which ispivotally connected to a second portion 52 by a pivot 53. The pivot 53may comprise a hinge so as to hingedly connect the first portion 51 ofthe clamp 50 with the second portion 52 of the clamp 50.

The distal ends of the first portion 51 and second portion 52 of eachclamp 50 may be removably connectable so as to define a leg opening 56between the first and second portions 51, 52 of the clamp 50. The clamp50 may be closed around a leg 40 such that the leg 40 is positionedwithin the leg opening 56.

A connector 54 on the distal end of the second portion 52 of each clamp50 may be adapted to engage with a corresponding receiver 55 on thedistal end of the first portion 51 of each clamp 50 to removably securethe clamp 50 around the leg 40 at a desired position on the length ofthe leg 40. The connector 54 may thus be “snapped shut” by engaging theconnector 54 within the receiver 55 of the clamp 50.

The connector 54 may comprise a cylindrical member such as shown inFIGS. 19-20; with a portion of the cylindrical member being exposed whenthe clamp 50 is closed so as to provide a support for the shelf 70 suchas shown in FIG. 20. In this manner, the connector 54 may be utilized asa post or pinion-rod to which the shelf 70 may be connected such asshown in the figures.

As shown in FIG. 10, the clamps 50 may be utilized to support thestabilizing members 74 connected between the various legs 40. FIG. 11illustrates a clamp 50 installed on each of four legs 40 a, 40 b, 40 c,40 d; with the stabilizing members 74 extending between each pair oflegs 40 a, 40 b, 40 c, 40 d. It should be appreciated that, in someembodiments, the clamps 50 may be omitted and the stabilizing members 74instead be directly connected to the legs 40 a, 40 b, 40 c, 40 d.

As shown in FIG. 19, each clamp 50 may include one or more rod openings57, 58 for removably receiving an end 75, 76 of a stabilizing member 74.In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, a first rod opening 57is positioned on the first portion 51 of the clamp 50 and a second rodopening 58 is positioned on the second portion 52 of the clamp 50. Thefirst rod opening 57 is adapted to receive an end 75, 76 of a firststability member 74 while the second rod opening 58 is adapted toreceive an end 75, 76 of a second stability member 74.

The stability members 74 are best shown in FIGS. 7 and 10. The number ofstability members 74 utilized may vary in different embodiments. In theexemplary embodiment shown in the figures, a plurality of stabilitymembers 74 may be utilized comprised of a first stability member 74 a, asecond stability member 74 b, a third stability member 74 c, and afourth stability member 74 d; with each of the stability members 74 a,74 b, 74 c, 74 d extending between a pair of legs 40 a, 40 b, 40 c, 40d.

The stability members 74 are adapted to provide additional structuralintegrity to the legs 40 when in the table configuration to preventwobbling of the legs 40 when in use or other undesirable conditions.This can be particularly useful when the legs 40 are fully extended suchas shown in FIG. 10.

The stability members 74 are illustrated as comprising rods in theexemplary configuration shown in the figures. The type of stabilitymember 74 utilized may vary in different embodiments. Each stabilitymember 74 includes a first end 75 and a second end 76; with the firstend 75 being connected to a first leg 40 and the second end 76 beingconnected to a second leg 40; such as by clamps 50.

The respective ends 75, 76 of each stability member 74 may beangularly-oriented (such as at a right angle) with respect to theremainder of the stability member 74 body such that the ends 75, 76 maybe easily inserted into or removed from the clamps 50. Alternatively,the stability members 74 could be magnetically connected or use bracketsor the like to directly connect to the legs 40 in some embodiments.

E. Attachments

As best shown in FIGS. 7 and 14, various attachments 60 may be providedto be selectively attached to the tabletop 20 when in the tableconfiguration to provide various functionalities. It should beappreciated that the attachments 60 shown and described herein aremerely exemplary; and that various other attachments 60 known to beuseful in connection with a tabletop 20 may be utilized in differentembodiments.

As shown in FIG. 1, the tabletop 20 may include one or more attachmentreceivers 68 on its upper end 21 adapted to removably engage with andreceive an attachment 60 to be secured to the tabletop 20 when in thetable configuration. These same attachments 60 may be stored in thecavity 30 of the tabletop 20 when in the case configuration such asshown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 14 illustrates exemplary attachments 60 for use with the tabletop20. A device holder 62 may be provided for supporting various mobiledevices, such as a mobile phone, in an upright and visible position forthe user when the tabletop 20 is in the table configuration. Varioustypes of device holders 62 may be utilized, and the exemplary embodimentshown in the figures should not be construed as limiting. The deviceholder 62 may be removably connected to the tabletop 20 via theattachment receivers 68.

FIG. 14 illustrates a document holder 64 which may also be provided forsupporting documents or pages to be easily read by a user of thetabletop 20 when in the table configuration. Various types of documentholders 64 may be utilized, and the exemplary embodiment shown in thefigures should not be construed as limiting. The document holder 64 maybe removably connected to the tabletop 20 via the attachment receivers68.

FIG. 14 illustrates a cup holder 66 which may also be provided forsupporting a cup on the tabletop 20 when in the table configuration.Various types of cup holders 66 may be utilized, and the exemplaryembodiment shown in the figures should not be construed as limiting. Thecup holder 66 may be removably connected to the tabletop 20 via theattachment receivers 68.

It should be appreciated that the use of a cavity 30 allows theattachments 60 to be stored when not in use. Thus, for example, the cupholder 66 could be utilized while the document holder 64 and deviceholder 62 remain in storage. Any combination of attachments 60 in useand in storage may be utilized. Additionally, it should be appreciatedthat some attachments 60 may not necessarily connect using theattachment receivers 68 such as in FIG. 14, which illustrates that thedevice holder 62 is merely positioned on the tabletop 20 rather thanbeing secured with an attachment receiver 68.

F. Shelf

As best shown in FIGS. 11-18, a shelf insert 70 may be utilized toprovide a utility shelf 70 for optional use with the tabletop 20 when inthe table configuration. When not in use (e.g., when in the caseconfiguration or when a shelf 70 is not desired or needed), the shelfinsert 70 may be secured between the cover 80 and the tabletop 20(either upper end 21 or lower end 22).

The shelf 70 may comprise a planar, rectangular sheet having one or moremount openings 72 to allow it to be removably mounted via the clamps 50such as shown in FIG. 11. The shelf 70 may comprise various shapes,sizes, and configurations, and should not be construed as limited by theexemplary figures or descriptions herein.

FIG. 15 illustrates a shelf 70 in use on a tabletop 20 in a tableconfiguration. As can be seen, the shelf 70 is supported by engaging theconnectors 54 of the clamps 50 within the mount openings 72 of the shelf70. The height of the shelf 70 may vary depending on the location alongthe length of the legs 40 that the clamps 50 are connected to. The shelf70 may be utilized for various purposes, such as to hold papers or thelike, or to support a projector 15 as shown in FIG. 18.

FIG. 6 illustrates a shelf 70 secured between the tabletop 20 and thecover 80. When being stored, the shelf 70 may be sandwiched between thetabletop 20 and the cover 80; with the cover 80 retaining the shelf 70in position. To retrieve the shelf 70, the cover 80 may be pulled off toexpose the shelf 70 so that it may be removed for usage. The cover 80may then be reconnected to the tabletop 20 such as shown in FIG. 11;with the shelf 70 being connected between the legs 40.

G. Cover

As shown throughout the figures, a cover 80 may be provided toselectively and removably connect to either the upper end 21 or thelower end 22 of the tabletop 20. The cover 80 may be connected to coverthe lower end 22 of the tabletop 20 so as to enclose the cavity 30 whenin the case configuration or when in the table configuration if not allcomponents stored in the cavity 30 are in use.

The cover 80 will generally be substantially the same shape and size asthe lower end 22 of the tabletop 20 such as shown in FIG. 7. The cover80 may include an upper end 81 and a lower end 82; the lower end 82being adapted to be connected to the tabletop 20. The outer edge 84 ofthe cover 80 may comprise a lip 85 which is adapted to engage with thetracks 28, 29 of the tabletop 20 so that the cover 80 may be slid ontoor slid off of the cover 80 such as shown in FIG. 6.

The cover 80 may also serve to extend the effective area of the tabletop20 surface when in the table configuration such as shown in FIG. 13. Thecover 80 may be connected such that a portion of it “hangs off” one ofthe ends 25, 26 of the tabletop 20 which allows the cover 80 toeffectively extend the upper end 21 of the tabletop 20 to increase workspace.

FIG. 17 illustrates such an embodiment in which a projector 15 issupported on the cover 80 as it is partially connected to the tabletop20. As can be seen in FIG. 17, the cover 80 has been partially connectedto the upper end 21 of the tabletop 20 in a manner such that the cover80 effectively expands the workspace available to a user. Thus, the userwould be able to use both the exposed upper end 21 of the tabletop 20,as well as the entirety of the overlying cover 80, as workspace forwriting, reading, or supporting devices such as laptops 14, projectors15, and the like.

When not in use, such as when the tabletop 20 is in its caseconfiguration, the cover 80 may be connected to the lower end 22 of thetabletop 20. When in the table configuration, the cover 80 may beconnected to the upper end 21 of the tabletop 20 such that it is flushwith the raised portion 27, or may be set aside. The cover 80 willgenerally not be connected to the lower end 22 of the tabletop 20 whenin the table configuration, as the cover 80 would not allow access forthe legs 40 to connect to the leg receivers 36 a, 36 b, 36 c, 36 d.

H. Slant Support

FIGS. 22-24 illustrate an optional slant support 90 that may be includedon the upper end 21 of the tabletop 20 to support various devices suchas a laptop 14 in an angular position. This can be useful for ergonomicswhen typing to reduce the chance of carpel-tunnel syndrome or the like.

As shown in FIG. 24, the tabletop 20 may include a cutout portion 98 inwhich the slant support 90 may collapse to provide a flush surface whenthe slant support 90 is not in use. The slant support 90 may comprisevarious configurations, such as those shown in FIGS. 22-24. The slantsupport 90 may include a first end 92 which is pivotally connected tothe tabletop 20. A second end 93 of the slant support 90 may be adaptedto be adjusted along various locations of the cutout portion 98.

A hinge 95 may be positioned at the approximate midpoint of the slantsupport 90 to allow the slant support 90 to be adjusted between itsupright position and its flush position. The second end 93 of the slantsupport 90 may be lockably and removably engaged in correspondinglocking members 94 within the cutout portion 98 to lock the slantsupport 90 in various positions. The slant support 90 may include asupport member 96 such as a plate or the like which provides support forthe device such as a laptop 14 as shown in FIG. 23.

I. Operation of Preferred Embodiment

In use, the collapsible table system 10 is convertible between a tableconfiguration such as shown in FIGS. 12-18 and a case configuration suchas shown in FIGS. 1-4. When in the case configuration, the cover 80 isconnected to the lower end 22 of the tabletop 20 so as to cover thecavity 30 and enclose any components stored therein such as shown inFIG. 4.

FIGS. 8-13 illustrate the construction of the table configuration.First, the cover 80 may be removed to expose the cavity 30. The variouscomponents desired for use may be pulled out of the cavity 30, such asthe legs 40, clamps 50, attachments 60, and stability members 74. Thecover 80 may be set aside, or connected to the upper end 21 of thetabletop 20 such as shown in FIG. 13.

The legs 40 may then be set up according to the needs of the individual.They may be lengthened to various lengths to adjust the height of thetabletop 20 when in the table configuration. FIG. 9 illustrates the legs40 being fully extended. As shown in FIG. 10, the clamps 50 may beconnected to the legs 40; with each leg 40 receiving one clamp 50. Thestabilizing members 74 may then be connected between the clamps 50,which will ensure the structural integrity of the legs 40 such as shownin FIG. 10.

If desired, the shelf 70 may be pulled out from the tabletop 20 andconnected between the legs 40. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, theshelf 70 may be connected to the clamps 50. The height of the shelf 70may vary depending on the positioning of the clamps 50 on the legs 40.

The tabletop 20 may then be connected to the upper ends 41 of the legs40. Generally, the connectors 41 on the upper end 41 of the legs 40 willremovably engage with corresponding leg receivers 36 on the lower end 22of the tabletop 20. It should be appreciated that in some embodimentsthis could be the first step; with the legs 40 being connected to thetabletop 20 prior to connection of the clamps 50, stability members 74,and/or shelf 70.

FIGS. 14-18 illustrate various uses for the tabletop 20 when in thetable configuration. As shown in FIG. 14 illustrates various attachmentswhich are secured to the tabletop 20 for various uses, including adevice holder 62, document holder 64, and cup holder 66. FIG. 15illustrates an operator 12 standing while using a laptop 14 on anextended tabletop 20 in the table configuration.

FIG. 16 illustrates an operator 12 sitting while using a laptop 14 on ashorter tabletop 20 in the table configuration. FIG. 17 illustrates atabletop 20 being used to support both a laptop 14 and a projector 15;with the laptop 14 on the upper end 21 of the tabletop 20 and theprojector on the cover 80 which is connected to the upper end 21 of thetabletop 20. FIG. 18 illustrates a laptop 14 on the tabletop 20 and aprojector 15 on the shelf 70.

When desired, the collapsible table system 10 may be collapsed back intoits case configuration for transport such as shown in FIG. 25. FIG. 25illustrates how easy it is to transport the collapsible table system 10when in its case configuration, with an operator 12 transporting thecollapsible table system 10 within luggage 18. The legs 40, clamps 50,attachments 60, and stability members 74 may be stored within the cavity30. The shelf 70 may be stored between the lower end 22 of the tabletop20 and the cover 80 when the cover 80 is connected to the lower end 22of the tabletop 20 to enclose the cavity 30.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materialssimilar to or equivalent to those described herein can be used in thepractice or testing of the collapsible table system, suitable methodsand materials are described above. All publications, patentapplications, patents, and other references mentioned herein areincorporated by reference in their entirety to the extent allowed byapplicable law and regulations. The collapsible table system may beembodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit oressential attributes thereof, and it is therefore desired that thepresent embodiment be considered in all respects as illustrative and notrestrictive. Any headings utilized within the description are forconvenience only and have no legal or limiting effect.

1. An improved portable, compact computer and projector standcomprising: a tabletop comprising an upper end and a lower end, thelower end of the table top comprising a cavity; a plurality of linearlyadjustable legs removably connected to the lower end of the tabletop,wherein the plurality of legs are adapted to support the tabletop at aworking height adapted to be situation between a first sitting positionheight and a second standing position height when the plurality oflinearly adjustable legs are connected to the tabletop; a coverconnected to the lower end of the tabletop, wherein the cover is adaptedto selectively enclose the cavity, wherein the plurality of legs areadapted to be stored in the cavity of the tabletop; and a stabilizingassembly for structurally interconnection the legs in a stabilizedmanner, the stabilizing assembly being removably connected between theplurality of legs; wherein the stabilizing assembly is connected betweenthe plurality of legs at a connection height between the first sittingposition height and the second standing position height.
 2. The improvedportable, compact computer and projector stand of claim 1, wherein: eachof said plurality of linearly adjustable legs is linearly adjustablebetween a shorter length of at most about 30 inches and a longer lengthof at most 44 inches; and the stabilizing assembly comprises a pluralityof stabilizing members adapted to be stored in the cavity of thetabletop.
 3. The improved portable, compact computer and projector standof claim 2, wherein the stabilizing assembly further comprises: aplurality of clamps, each of the clamps being removably connected to oneof the plurality of legs.
 4. The improved portable, compact computer andprojector stand claim 3, wherein the stabilizing members are removablyconnected between the clamps.
 5. The improved portable, compact computerand projector stand of claim 4, wherein the stabilizing assembly furthercomprises: a shelf adapted to be removably connected between the legs.6. The improved portable, compact computer and projector stand of claim5, wherein the shelf is removably connected to the clamps.
 7. Theimproved portable, compact computer and projector stand of claim 6,wherein the shelf is adapted to be shared between the lower end of thetabletop and the cover when the cover is connected to the lower end ofthe tabletop.
 8. The improved portable, compact computer and projectorstand of claim 2, wherein the cavity comprises a plurality ofcompartments.
 9. The improved portable, compact computer and projectorstand of claim 2, wherein the stabilizing members are each comprised ofa rod.
 10. An improved portable, compact computer and projector standcomprising: a tabletop comprising an upper end and a lower end, thelower end of the table top comprising a cavity; a plurality of linearlyadjustable legs removably connected to the lower end of the tabletop,wherein the plurality of legs are adapted to support the tabletop at aworking height adapted to be situation between a first sitting positionheight of approximately 28 to 30 inches and a second standing positionheight of at most approximately 44 inches when the plurality of linearlyadjustable legs are connected to the tabletop; a cover removablyconnected to the lower end of the tabletop, wherein the cover is adaptedto selectively enclose the cavity, wherein the plurality of legs areadapted to be stored in the cavity of the tabletop; a stabilizingassembly structurally interconnecting the legs in a stabilized mannerand comprising: a plurality of stabilizing members for stabilizing thelegs, each of the stabilizing members being removably connected betweenthe plurality of legs; a plurality of clamps, each of the clamps beingremovably connected to one of the plurality of legs, wherein thestabilizing members are connected between the clamps, said clamps beingadapted to be stored in the cavity of the tabletop; wherein thestabilizing assembly is connected between the plurality of legs at aconnection height between the first sitting position height and thesecond standing position height.
 11. The improved portable, compactcomputer and projector stand of claim 10, wherein each of the clampscomprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein the firstportion is hingedly connected to the second portion, wherein a distalend of the first portion is removably connected to a distal end of thesecond portion.
 12. The improved portable, compact computer andprojector stand of claim 11, wherein each of the clamps comprises a legopening for removably receiving one of the legs, the leg opening beingdefined between the first portion and the second portion when the firstportion is connected to the second portion.
 13. The improved portable,compact computer and projector stand of claim 12, wherein each of theclamps comprises a rod opening for removably receiving one of thestabilizing members.
 14. The improved portable, compact computer andprojector stand of claim 13, wherein the stabilizing assembly furthercomprises: a shelf adapted to be removably connected between the legs.15. The improved portable, compact computer and projector stand of claim14, wherein the shelf is removably connected to the clamps.
 16. Theimproved portable, compact computer and projector stand of claim 15,wherein the shelf is adapted to be stored between the lower end of thetabletop and the cover when the cover is connected to the lower end ofthe tabletop.
 17. The improved portable, compact computer and projectorstand of claim 10, wherein the cover is removably connected to the upperend of the tabletop.
 18. The improved portable, compact computer andprojector stand of claim 10, wherein the cavity comprises a firstcompartment and a second compartment, wherein the legs are adapted to bestored in the first compartment and the clamps are adapted to be storedin the second compartment.
 19. The improved portable, compact computerand projector stand of claim 10, further comprising one or moreaccessories adapted to be removably connected to the upper end of thetabletop, each of the one or more accessories being adapted to be storedin the cavity.
 20. An improved portable, compact computer and projectorstand comprising: a tabletop comprising an upper end and a lower end,the lower end of the table top comprising a cavity; a plurality oflinearly adjustable legs removably connected to the lower end of thetabletop, wherein the plurality of legs are adapted to support thetabletop at a working height adapted to be situation between a firstsitting position and a second standing position when the plurality oflegs are connected to the tabletop; a cover removably connected to thelower end of the tabletop, wherein the cover is adapted to selectivelyenclose the cavity, wherein the plurality of legs are adapted to bestored in the cavity of the tabletop; a stabilizing assembly forstructurally interconnecting the legs in a stabilized manner andcomprising: a plurality of stabilizing members for stabilizing the legs,each of the stabilizing members being removably connected between theplurality of legs; a plurality of clamps, each of the clamps beingremovably connected to one of the plurality of legs, wherein thestabilizing members are connected between the clamps, wherein the clampsare adapted to be stored in the cavity of the tabletop, wherein each ofthe clamps is comprised of: a first portion; a second portion hingedlyconnected to the second portion; a leg opening defined between the firstportion and the second portion when the first portion is connected tothe second portion; and a rod opening for removably receiving one of thestabilizing members; a document holder removably connected to thetabletop, wherein the document holder is adapted to be stored in thecavity; a device holder removably connected to the tabletop, wherein thedevice holder is adapted to be stored in the cavity; a cup holderremovably connected to the tabletop, wherein the cup holder is adaptedto be stored in the cavity; and a slant support movably connected withina cutout portion of the upper end of the tabletop, the slant supportbeing adjustable between a first position in which the slant support isflush with the upper end of the tabletop and a second position in whichthe slant support is adapted to extend angularly upward to support anobject at an angle with respect to the upper end of the tabletop.